Brexit, transport and broadband top Holyrood’s rural agenda
Members of the Scottish Parliament’s rural economy and connectivity committee are set to tackle the impact of Brexit on agriculture and fisheries, transport and broadband issues.
Defra Secretary Michael Gove took part in the discussions.
ADVERTISEMENT
With the Scottish Parliament back in session, committee chair Edward Mountain MSP said that there was a “genuine frustration that a lack of fast broadband is holding businesses back”.
Brexit will form a significant part of the committee’s discussions as it seeks clarification from the UK and Scottish governments on the implications for Scotland’s farmers. “Our farmers and fishermen rightly expect to have a clear idea of what plans are in place during the transition period and beyond,” said Mr Mountain.
Defra secretary, Michael Gove MP took part in a video session with the committee shortly before summer recess began in June and it regularly takes evidence from Scottish ministers too.
ADVERTISEMENT
“However, further clarity is required on a number of issues, including policies around seasonal migrant workers in the agriculture and food producing industries, fishing quotas and agricultural payments after 2020. The Committee will continue to challenge both the UK and Scottish governments on these matters in this crucial period of change,” Mountain said.
The committee has also launched a survey on the Clyde and Hebrides services, notably whether investment in vessels and harbours is sufficient to meet increased demand and passenger numbers.
In view of the challenges of running rural bus services, it is also calling for views on proposals for local authorities to operate services as part of the Transport (Scotland) Bill.
Register for free to read this story and our free stories.
This content is available to digital subscribers and loyalty code users only. Sign in to your account, use the code or subscribe to get unlimited access.
The reader loyalty code gives you full access to the site from when you enter it until the following Wednesday at 9pm. Find your unique code on the back page of Irish Country Living every week.
CODE ACCEPTED
You have full access to the site until next Wednesday at 9pm.
CODE NOT VALID
Please try again or contact support.
With the Scottish Parliament back in session, committee chair Edward Mountain MSP said that there was a “genuine frustration that a lack of fast broadband is holding businesses back”.
Brexit will form a significant part of the committee’s discussions as it seeks clarification from the UK and Scottish governments on the implications for Scotland’s farmers. “Our farmers and fishermen rightly expect to have a clear idea of what plans are in place during the transition period and beyond,” said Mr Mountain.
Defra secretary, Michael Gove MP took part in a video session with the committee shortly before summer recess began in June and it regularly takes evidence from Scottish ministers too.
“However, further clarity is required on a number of issues, including policies around seasonal migrant workers in the agriculture and food producing industries, fishing quotas and agricultural payments after 2020. The Committee will continue to challenge both the UK and Scottish governments on these matters in this crucial period of change,” Mountain said.
The committee has also launched a survey on the Clyde and Hebrides services, notably whether investment in vessels and harbours is sufficient to meet increased demand and passenger numbers.
In view of the challenges of running rural bus services, it is also calling for views on proposals for local authorities to operate services as part of the Transport (Scotland) Bill.
If you would like to speak to a member of our team, please call us on 01-4199525.
Link sent to your email address
We have sent an email to your address. Please click on the link in this email to reset your password. If you can't find it in your inbox, please check your spam folder. If you can't find the email, please call us on 01-4199525.
ENTER YOUR LOYALTY CODE:
The reader loyalty code gives you full access to the site from when you enter it until the following Wednesday at 9pm. Find your unique code on the back page of Irish Country Living every week.
SHARING OPTIONS